05/05/2023
“Geographic Tongue: What Parents Need to Know”
Geographic tongue is a common condition that affects the tongue, causing it to look like a map with red patches surrounded by white borders. While it may look concerning, geographic tongue is generally harmless and doesn't require treatment.
As a pediatric dentist at Lubbock KIDS Dental, I understand that parents may be worried if their child has this condition. That's why I want to provide some information to help parents understand geographic tongue and its symptoms.
The exact cause of geographic tongue is unknown, but it's thought to be related to an immune system response. Symptoms of geographic tongue can include patches on the tongue that move or change shape over time, red, smooth areas on the tongue, white borders around the patches, and sensitivity to certain foods or substances.
If you suspect that your child has geographic tongue, schedule an appointment with their pediatric dentist. While there's no cure for geographic tongue, it typically doesn't require treatment unless it's causing discomfort or pain. If your child is experiencing discomfort, we may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers.
If you're the parent of a child with geographic tongue, it's important to understand this condition and its symptoms. That's why we've provided some resources below that may be helpful:
1. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD): The AAPD is a professional organization for pediatric dentists that provides resources and information on a wide range of oral health topics, including geographic tongue. The AAPD website offers a parent resource center with articles and FAQs on children's oral health, as well as a search tool to help you find a pediatric dentist in your area.
2. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR): The NIDCR is a research organization focused on improving oral, dental, and craniofacial health through research, training, and outreach. The NIDCR website offers information on oral health conditions, including geographic tongue, as well as resources for parents and children, such as educational materials and interactive tools.
3. HealthyChildren.org: HealthyChildren.org is a website developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) that provides information on children's health and wellness topics, including oral health. The website offers articles and resources on a wide range of oral health topics, as well as a search tool to help you find a pediatric dentist in your area.
4. KidsHealth: KidsHealth is a website developed by the Nemours Foundation that provides information on children's health and wellness topics, including oral health. The website offers articles, videos, and interactive tools to help parents and children learn about and manage health conditions, including geographic tongue.
5. MouthHealthy.org: MouthHealthy.org is a website developed by the American Dental Association (ADA) that provides information on oral health topics, including geographic tongue. The website offers articles, videos, and interactive tools to help parents and children learn about and manage oral health conditions, as well as a search tool to help you find a dentist in your area.
At Lubbock KIDS Dental, we're committed to providing the best care for your child's oral health. If you have any questions or concerns about your child's oral health, please don't hesitate to contact us.
